Times like this just warm the heart.
It was an honor to present awards at our 2023 St. Mary's County Special Olympics this year. Our Olympians are second to none!
I had a great time at "Coffee with the Sheriff" This past Thursday at the Northern Senior Activity Center in Charlotte Hall. Thanks to all who attended, and the St. Mary's Count Department on Aging and the Triad / SALT Council for sponsoring this great event.
If you missed it, Mark your calendars - I look forward to meeting you at the next one, July 20th at the Loftier Senior Activity Center in Great Mills.
See you there.
I was honored to attend the National Sheriff’s Institute 119th Leadership Development Program this past week, alongside these history-making Sheriffs from Virginia, Vermont and Minnesota.
To my right -
Sheriff Vanessa R. Crawford, the first female Sheriff in the history of Petersburg Virginia. Elected to four terms, she also holds the distinction of being the first female in the history of Virginia to run an all-male Correctional facility and the only African American female Sheriff in our United States from 2014-2017.
Sheriff Jennifer Harlow. Currently 28 years into her law enforcement career, Sheriff Harlow was appointed by Vermont’s Governor to become the first female Sheriff of Orleans County Vermont in January 2020.
To my left -
Sheriff Dawanna Witt holds the double distinction of being not only the first female Sheriff of Hennepin County Minnesota, she is also the first person of color to become Hennepin County Sheriff, elected by an overwhelming majority.
I count myself very fortunate to have met these pioneers in policing that have continually shattered glass ceiling after glass ceiling. They are an inspiration to peace officers everywhere.
The Leadership Program provided a wealth of information that I’m looking forward to putting into practice. I’m a firm believer that good leaders have to be good learners. When you stop learning, you stop leading.
I was pleased to attend the Eagle Scout Court of Honor for brothers Matt and Luke Getson at Patuxent River Naval Museum this evening.
I presented Eagle Scouts Matt and Luke with a Sheriff's Salute and challenge coin to celebrate their remarkable achievement. Their parents Scott and Kristi have a lot to be proud of.
I am always amazed by the number of driven young citizens we have in our county. We (especially in law enforcement) are bombarded with negative stories and opinions of the new generations.
I'm so thankful for moments like tonight that prove there are amazing kids, families, mentors and organizations that are getting it done.
Our future is bright!
IF YOU KNOW, YOU KNOW!
Celebrating love of our county this Valentine's Day!
OUR BLUE IS GOING TO LOOK GREAT ON YOU!
Make a difference in your community. Consider a career with the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office.
Great pay. A lifetime pension. Unmatched benefits. Don't put it off any longer. Apply now!
AT THE DAWN OF A NEW YEAR…
Sending heartfelt thanks and thinking of the families of our deputies, corrections officers & professional staff, as well as our first responders and military personnel. They won’t see their loves ones during the holiday because they are out protecting ours.
Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas.
DECEMBER 17, 2022 - This morning started off in Point Lookout at the St. Mary’s Splash. Presented by your Sheriff's Office, almost $17,000 was raised for sports and leadership programs that will benefit over 200 of our local Special Olympics athletes.
Then, it was off to the Lexington Park Holly Days at St. Mary’s Square. Sponsored by the Lexington Park Business Association, this event had something for everyone - carolers, food trucks, local businesses…even Santa took a break from his workshop to attend.
Shop local!
(photos - Angela Cameron and Commissioner Ostrow)
-
at St. Mary's Splash with Retired Sheriff Cameron and Sheriff's Office Chaplain Larry Crabtree
-
Holly Days at St. Mary's Square! #ShopLocal
-
With Commissioner Ostrow and Santa at Holly Days in Lexington Park.
DECEMBER 5, 2022 - Feeling the support of the community, my good friends and family has been a real comfort this week as I realized a dream.
The highlight has been shaking the hand of every employee in my agency family. To see and spend time with each has been both humbling and inspiring.
We have incredible public servants in St. Mary's County.
I am truly grateful for our resounding victory.
Our campaign was almost a year-long journey. Nothing of this magnitude with this level of importance is done by an individual. It was a community effort and I am thankful for everyone who participated.
To the other Sheriff’s candidates, I wish you all the best in your future endeavors, both personally and professionally.
Thank you everyone, for the honor of becoming your next Sheriff. I sincerely appreciate you placing your faith and trust in me. I will not let you down.
I am excited for the future of our beloved St. Mary’s County. I’m looking forward to all of us building an even better community. Let’s work together!
All my best,
Steve
As this amazing experience winds down, I wanted to take just a moment to extend my sincere thanks and gratitude for the overwhelming love, support and encouragement throughout this campaign.
To my committee members, family and everyone that lent a helping hand, I can never repay the debt. You kept me focused, grounded and buoyed. I am a blessed man.
Placing your trust and confidence in me has been the greatest honor of my life.
- Steve
READY TO HIT THE GROUND RUNNING ON DAY ONE!
To our friends, colleagues and residents of St. Mary’s County -
Please consider our recommendation for Captain Steve Hall for Sheriff of St. Mary’s County. We make this recommendation based on our personal and professional knowledge of his integrity, honesty, and devotion to his job serving the citizens of St. Mary’s County for the past twenty eight years.
We became law enforcement officers because we grew up in St. Mary’s County and we wanted to serve and protect the citizens of our community in the most professional and efficient way possible. We encouraged those we supervised to adopt a proactive approach to crime by maintaining personal contact with resident of St. Mary’s County on and off duty, and to treat all persons with courtesy and respect, to promote an atmosphere of trust and confidence in our agency.
We worked closely with Steve when he became a young deputy. We experienced Steve’s work ethic, dedication, moral concern and professional demeanor during our tenure with him. Following retirement, we continued a personal relationship with our agency and admirably watched Steve advance through the ranks and achieve the position of Captain.
As prior law enforcement officers, we have witnessed many things and have faced many challenges and obstacles but nothing like the issues facing the men and women of today’s law enforcement community.
With his experience, passion for the job and effective leadership, we are confident that the citizens of St. Mary’s County will be well served for years to come by electing Steve Hall for Sheriff.
Don Purdy
Lieutenant, retired
St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office
Ron Maloy
Lieutenant, retired
St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office
Captain Steve Hall exemplifies the honored traditions of our Sheriff’s Office. Steve was raised in St Mary’s County and after obtaining his Bachelor’s Degree, Steve began serving our community with the Department of Social Services. Shortly thereafter, Steve joined our ranks as a Correctional Officer and then Deputy Sheriff.
Steve began preparing himself to be your Sheriff from his very first day of hire. Having graduated from the FBI National Academy, PERF Senior Police Management Institute and many other training forums, these accomplishments have enabled him to successfully serve or command in every division within your Sheriff’s Office.
Our community has also grown, educated, mentored and trained Captain Steve Hall to continue our Sheriff’s Office traditions and legacy as well. For over four decades our values and traditions have triumphantly groomed our executive leaders from within the ranks.
NO OTHER CANDIDATE knows the needs of our community or Sheriff’s Office better than Captain Steve Hall… Tenured Commander, Community Leader and true Public Servant committed to his continued “call for service” with Compassion, Integrity, Professionalism and Experience.
Major Michael R. Merican
Assistant Sheriff – Retired
St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office
1984 - 2022
Steve Hall is by far the best candidate to carry on the mission of the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office. I have known and worked with Steve since he joined the Sheriff's Office in 1996. I have watched him grow during his career and he has come up through the ranks. He has always had the best interest of the citizens of St. Mary's County foremost in his mind and it has always shown in the way he performs his duties.
During my term as the Sheriff of St. Mary's County, Steve served as a supervisor in the Bureau of Criminal Investigations, a combined unit of Deputies and Maryland State Police to collaborate and solve crimes. Under the leadership of Steve Hall the unit had over a 90% closure rate.
Steve has continued to advance in his rank and his career , never forgetting where he started. He is a credit to the uniform, the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office and the citizens he serves.
I wholeheartedly endorse Steve Hall to be the next Sheriff of St. Mary's County.
David D. Zylak
Sheriff, St. Mary's County
2002-2006
BRINGIN' IT HOME AT THE BELMONT!What a wonderful evening!
Thanks to God for the Fall-like weather in July, and NO RAIN during our entire event after a “Day of Deluge” in 7D!
Thanks to the STEVE HALL FOR SHERIFF committee members, friends, family and all the supporters who came out last night for an evening of food, fellowship and wonderful music from the Robbie Boothe Band!
Very special thanks to Rita B and her amazing Belmont staff, the Leonardtown VFD, and the Boothe family, who I’ve had the privilege of calling my extended kin going on 40 years.
Finally, none of this would have been possible without the many generous donations made to our campaign.
Last night was another example of the goodness, determination and love of the people of St. Mary’s County. It confirms the reason I want to be your Sheriff.
Early voting runs now thru JULY 14th, and Primary Election Day is July 19th. I’d appreciate your consideration in placing your vote and trust with me. I will not let you down.
Being the Sheriff of St. Mary’s County is an enormous responsibility. It requires someone with the requisite experience of our county and the many operations of the Sheriff’s Office.
I have known Steve Hall for nearly 30 years. I had the confidence to promote Steve to Deputy Sheriff in 1996 and to First Line Supervisor in 2002. These promotions were based not only on his ability and effectiveness, but his care for his fellow officers and commitment to those we serve.
Steve’s qualifications, experience and dedication to his chosen profession and the people of this county are unmatched. Steve is a bridge builder and is keenly aware that his primary responsibility is for the safety of our citizens.
It is without hesitation that I offer my endorsement of Steve Hall to be the next Sheriff of St. Mary’s County.
Richard J. Voorhaar
Sheriff of St. Mary’s County 1994-2002
ST. MARY'S COUNTY?
Local shops.
Great food.
Family.
Friends.
Community.
Home.
I first met Steve Hall in 1977 when I was in 3rd grade at Little Flower School and Steve joined 2nd grade. Steve and I were in school together through 1987 when I graduated from St. Mary’s Ryken.
Following my service in the U.S. Coast Guard I worked at the MD State Medical Examiner’s Office as a forensic investigator and ran into Steve at the Citgo in Leonardtown (1993). He asked me what I was doing and I told him about the forensic job. Steve eagerly shared, “That’s what I want to do!”
Steve began his career at the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office as a Correctional Officer in 1994…he’s been promoted through the ranks, obtaining the rank of Captain in 2010. He’s commanded the Patrol Division and most recently the Special Operations Division, where he enjoys the challenges of one of the most diverse and demanding divisions within the Sheriff’s Office.
Captain Hall was nominated and attended the FBI National Academy in Quantico. He recently completed the Police Executive Research Forum Senior Management in Policing. He’s completed the Maryland Police Training Commission Leadership Challenge and received the session’s Outstanding Leader Award.
Captain Hall attended the Leadership Southern Maryland class in 2018 and continues to volunteer to further that program along. Twenty-eight (28) years of service later, he has worked his way through the Sheriff’s Office and its ranks – serving, supervising and collaborating with every division in the agency. He has held a command level position for the past twelve (12) years. Part of excellent leadership is understanding and serving in the positions you are tasked to lead; Steve has worked his way through the ranks and understands and respects every position within the SMC Sheriff’s Department.
For over two (2) decades I have witnessed Steve serving as an active church member (St. Michael’s) as a lector and Communion server. He and his wife Faith have raised two young men who are excellent examples in our community.
Steve completely understands the roles and responsibilities of the SMC Sheriff; he possesses twenty-eight (28) years of experience, beginning as a patrolman leading up to his current position as Captain.
Are we looking for a drastic change in policing or are we enjoying the experiences of a great Sheriff like Tim Cameron of which Steve Hall is an excellent protégée? I’m thinking the latter, and that is why I am voting for Steve Hall on July 19th; experience, community and integrity matter. Steve Hall for Sheriff 2022!
Tom Jarboe Former St. Mary’s County Commissioner District-1
ENDORSEMENTS!
I'm honored to have endorsements from so many good folks. Business owners, community volunteers, first responders, law enforcement and of course, wonderful citizens of St. Mary's County.
Please take a moment to view them here.
I'm honored to have endorsements from so many good folks. Business owners, community volunteers, first responders, law enforcement and of course, wonderful citizens of St. Mary's County.
Please take a moment to view them here.
“Steve Hall for Sheriff, absolutely!
As a committed law enforcement officer and Commander, Steve Hall recognizes the value of solid, proactive, professional policing that will ensure the safety and foster trust throughout our community.
Now more and ever, under tenuous times, Steve Hall understand the definitive need to maintain and further build upon a confidence that the Saint Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office will excel as a professional agency at all levels.
I cite and example of Steve Hall’s vision and direction from a recent conversation focusing on proactive enforcement, crime trends and victims. Our Police Officers spend a majority of their time interacting with an element of society that do not wish to assimilate and better the community. And, while the need for Officers to have a strong community presence, especially when dealing with the criminal element of our society, Steve Hall also understand the balance and value of each individual interaction wit the public.
A large portion of our community may never have a reason for direct interaction with a Police Officer. However, when that occasion arises, the person seeking assistance is in some form of distress due to circumstances that they cannot control or manage without the help of law enforcement causing vulnerability and sometimes fear. Steve Hall recognizes that this first interaction should be positive and professional to mitigate and assist the person in need. He intends to maintain this standard for public trust and messaging.
As a retired member of law enforcement and a resident of St. Mar’s County, I believe Steve Hall will be aggressive on crime and maintain open dialogs with his constituents as he leads the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office."
Michael W. Riess
Sergeant, Retired,
Prince George’s County Police Department
The choice for your next Sheriff of St. Mary’s County will be decided on July 19th in the Primary election. If you would like to have your voice heard, here’s what you need to do -
NOT REGISTERED TO VOTE? The LAST DAY to register to vote is JUNE 28!
NOT A REGISTERED REPUBLICAN? You have until JUNE 28th to change your party to vote in the primary.
REGISTERED AS A REPUBLICAN? You’re all set!
EARLY VOTING? Yes! You can VOTE EARLY July 7th thru 14th. There are THREE voting locations:
Mechanicsville Firehouse - 28165 Hills Club Road, Mechanicsville
Hollywood Firehouse - 24801 Three Notch Road, Hollywood
Bay District Firehouse - 46900 S. Shangri-La Drive, Lexington Park
MAIL IN BALLOTS? Yes! You can request them TODAY. They MUST be postmarked or placed in a county drop box by 8pm July 19th.
DROP BOXES? Yes! There are 11 drop box locations throughout St. Mary’s County. You can drop your vote anytime between NOW and July 19th - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! Find out more at the St. Mary’s County Board of Elections website.
__________
Thank you everyone. I sincerely appreciate all the encouragement and support in this year-long campaign. If you have a few moments, you can find my qualifications, employment background and complete law enforcement work history at http://www.SheriffSteveHall.com
I hope I have earned your confidence, and most importantly your vote on July 19th.
- Steve
I am very honored to receive the endorsement of our hardworking local law enforcement professionals, the St. Mary's County Fraternal Order of Police.
- Steve
A WONDERFUL EVENING IN WILDEWOOD!
I’d like to send my appreciation to everyone who came out to the “Meet, Greet and Eat!” yesterday evening.
It was a pleasure for me to sit down with you all, break bread, and discuss our concerns.
Sincere thanks to the fine folks at Wildewood Lodge for a first-class facility, Mission BBQ for the tasty food, and you…for your genuine concern in building a better St. Mary’s.
I’d like to send my appreciation to everyone who came out to the “Meet, Greet and Eat!” yesterday evening.
It was a pleasure for me to sit down with you all, break bread, and discuss our concerns.
Sincere thanks to the fine folks at Wildewood Lodge for a first-class facility, Mission BBQ for the tasty food, and you…for your genuine concern in building a better St. Mary’s.
"I have been a witness to Steve’s life. I have been a witness to Steve’s career."
Steve began his career as a Correctional Officer in 1994...he's been promoted through the ranks, attaining the rank of Captain in 2010.
He's commanded the Patrol Division and most recently the Special Operations Division, where he enjoys the challenges of one of the most diverse and demanding divisions within the Sheriff's Office.
Captain Hall was nominated and attended the FBI National Academy in Quantico. He recently completed the Police Executive Research Forum Senior Management in Policing...he's completed the Maryland Police Training Commission Leadership Challenge and received the session's Outstanding Leader Award.
Captain Hall attended the Leadership Southern Maryland class in 2018 and continues to volunteer to further that program along.
He received his undergraduate degree from Western Colorado University and holds a Master's Degree in Management and Leadership from Webster University.
He’s got a lot of formal education, but he also has a lot of common sense from the College of Hard Knocks.
Those hard knocks come from working the street, being a detective, working in narcotics, being in every level of command and management at every level of the agency…including preparation of budgets, writing grants…(Steve is) a guy with a great degree of empathy and love for this community, as well as fostering great morale within our agency because he deeply cares about the people that care for you.
I heartily endorse and support Steve Hall as a Candidate for Sheriff.
Tim Cameron
Sheriff, St. Mary’s County
2006-present
“I worked beside Steve Hall long before he became Captain Steve Hall, which allowed me the opportunity to observe him grow and mature into the strong and competent police commander he is today.
I spent the last seven years of my police career as the Commander of the Maryland State Police - Leonardtown Barrack, here in St. Mary’s County. I have been on the scene with Steve at homicides, robberies, barricades, fatal motor vehicle collisions, some of the most difficult and unfortunately the most mentally exhausting and depressing situations that police officers encounter on a routine basis. Through all of this, Steve was always calm, professional and focused on the situation at hand.
These qualities were always put to use when Steve supervised the hard working men and women from both the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and the Maryland State Police, the primary law enforcement agencies that comprised the ‘Law Enforcement Team’ here in St. Mary’s County.
For many years, the two agencies worked very closely together, especially with the St. Mary’s County Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI). This tenacious group of investigators was the ‘model’ for Maryland Law Enforcement agencies with respect to combined units, collaborative efforts and enormous successes.
Over the years I was affiliated with BCI, the unit investigated thousands of criminal cases and I was amazed with the overall successes of the Unit, especially with regard to case closure rates, which were generally 40% above the national average. Steve Hall was an instrumental supervisor in the BCI and was a huge part of the successes that Unit enjoyed.
Steve was always all about the mission and taking care of people, regardless of what agency you worked for. Steve is a uniter, he was not concerned with that agency was getting credit for what, no parochial attitudes, and no duplication of police services.
Steve continually inspired investigators to solve crimes, close cases and provide the best police services possible to the citizens of St. Mary’s County.
For these reasons, and many more, I strongly support Steve Hall for Sheriff!”
Michael Thompson
Retired Lieutenant
Maryland State Police
STANDING ROOM ONLY!It was wonderful to chat with those who attended "The Constitution and your Sheriff" event Sunday evening.
I’m very grateful to Mark Lamb, Mike Lewis and our very own Tim Cameron - three nationally recognized Sheriffs that took the time to speak at our event confirmed my calling.
The Thomas' and their amazing staff at Flat Broke Shooters provided the perfect location for this important (more than ever) discussion.
The Thompsons of the renowned St. James Deli provided incredible spread of food for all the attendees.
In a word - perfect.
In three words - Thank you all!
Thank you everyone. I can't tell you how much I appreciated all the good words and great conversation at the Leonardtown Lions Crab Festival.
We had plenty of goodies for everyone - I'm looking forward to seeing you around the county in that sharp "Hall for Sheriff" tee shirt!
I'm excited at the possibilities that are headed our way.
You always meet the best dressed people at "First Fridays" in Leonardtown!
Last night's event had it all - perfect weather, arts, crafts, music, great food…all wrapped up in a family-friendly atmosphere.
"First Friday" is a wonderful example of the great things we can do. We are truly stronger, together.
I look forward to seeing you Friday, July 1st in Leonardtown!
Crime, Lexington Park and St. Mary’s County
Facts. Not fiction.
“Crime is out of control."
Not accurate.
A community member asked a local newsman, “Why don’t you report on the good things that happen?”
His response? “Unfortunately, bad news sells better than good news.”
Friends, look beyond the soundbites. Haven’t we learned anything in the past two years?
We cannot just “arrest our way out of this.”
The reality is, crime and violence in ANY community is a problem. Not just in St. Mary’s County, but throughout our United States.
Community problems need community-based solutions.
At your Sheriff’s Office, investigations and strategies are being worked constantly to combat the senseless criminal activity not only in Lexington Park, but throughout St. Mary’s - from Charlotte Hall to Ridge. We focus on arresting those involved, and keep them in jail when they are convicted.
In 2021, the Sheriff’s Office had the Youth Gun Task Force. In three short months, Task Force efforts resulted in 104 search warrants (vehicles, phones, homes and people), 65 arrests and 19 guns taken off our streets.
Another avenue we use to combat the crime problem is the large coalition of faith-based leaders who have joined with us to stand up to the perpetrators of crime, and encourage people aware of criminal behavior or victimized by it to come forward and cooperate with us.
This trust and relationship with the community is critical to solving and preventing crime. You cannot lock your door and decide what happens on the other side is up to your Sheriff’s Office.
Don’t get me wrong, when the bullet leaves the barrel, your Sheriff’s Office is reactive. We investigate, we arrest. Last year, one person was shot and killed. 15 people were shot at with the intent to kill. This year, we have had two people shot and killed and 6 were shot at with the intent to kill.
We also investigate “reckless endangerments” where someone discharges a firearm - not at a person, and nothing is struck. There were 24 in 2021 and 12 so far this year. The investigations, the arrests…that’s reactive actions.
What about proactive actions? Together, we must take ownership of our community - we must be proactive. It’s impossible to give you numbers on crime prevented, but it works.
Look at our community and faith-based programs, our school resource officers, Neighborhood Watch programs, CrimeSolvers and our 30-plus years of effort in the National Night Out. We are truly stronger, together.
I believe there must be accountability for actions. Accountability at home, at school, at the workplace, behind the wheel and in our justice system.
When there are no consequences for behavior that threatens the peace and safety of our community, that behavior worsens.
I am not a stranger to the issues facing our community. I have the experience of working in our detention center, on the street and investigating the most serious criminal cases in St. Mary’s County. I know the value of the community trust with our citizens and stakeholders to prevent crime. I also know the hard work that comes from EARNING that trust.
I understand your concerns and I know them intimately. I grew up in Lexington Park….and I’m still in Lexington Park. I have lived off Chancellors Run Road for over ten years.
The challenge for you in this election is to elect a Sheriff that can bring out the best of the people that serve you. That person has to have the experience, that person has to have the trust. That person has to have the commitment and that person has to care.
That person is me.
I have been - and will continue to be - committed to the citizens and deterring crime throughout St. Mary’s County.
The Hall For Sheriff Crew got busy bright and early Saturday morning serving meals to the hardworking Christmas In April volunteers in Mechanicsville.
Sunday, we were off to Lexington Park. I was honored to participate the 75th Annual Southern Maryland Fireman’s Association Convention parade. Walking thru the heart of my hometown, and waving to the fine folks of Lexington Park was especially gratifying.
It was a humbling experience to spend the weekend with our community volunteers. They are a big part of what makes St. Mary’s such a great place to serve and a wonderful place to call home.
I am so grateful for your wonderful show of support for Hospice of St. Mary's. The FRIENDS OF STEVE HALL were out by the dozens at the 25th ANNUAL RUN FOR HOSPICE on Saturday.
That sea of support for Hospice warmed my heart.
Great friends getting together for a wonderful cause - it was a day I'll always remember.
Thank you Retired Sergeant Bennett for your wonderful words of support, and for all your years of service to the citizens of our county.
It was a pleasure speaking with a group of ladies in St. Mary's last month. It was an incredible opportunity to learn from one another to develop, plan and protect ourselves and our loved ones from fraudulent schemes that threaten our financial and physical security.
Thanks to the team at Edward Jones for hosting this event!
I look forward to speaking with your civic group or social club next! Feel free to contact me anytime.
JANUARY 9, 2022 - Today I found this magazine from 2009.
It reminded me of the incredible people of purpose and principle I've had the good fortune to work with. Each one individually amazing and collectively an incredible fraternity sworn to uphold the Constitution, preserve peace in our community and motivated to serve others.
Every minute of every day, these fine men and women help make St. Mary's County such a wonderful place to call home.
Thank you for all that you do.
Steve
DECEMBER 2021 - During this time of the year, it's important to remember what really matters.
Please drive at a safe speed, use your safety equipment - especially child seat restraints - and never drive while distracted or impaired.
Wishing you and yours a very happy and safe HALLiday season!
(thanks Timea for the wonderful photo!)
STEVE HALL FOR SHERIFF CAMPAIGN KICK-OFF!
NOVEMBER 7, 2021 - The "Steve Hall for Sheriff Campaign Kick-off" was held at The Front Porch restaurant in historic Leonardtown. Well over 100 people attended this event to support Steve's journey to become your next Sheriff. Food, fun and fellowship was the order of the day, topped off with a few words from Steve. Sincere thanks to all for your phone calls, emails, and support of this event.
Steve summed it up best, "St. Mary's County is first in Maryland, and second to none!"
NOVEMBER 7, 2021 - The "Steve Hall for Sheriff Campaign Kick-off" was held at The Front Porch restaurant in historic Leonardtown. Well over 100 people attended this event to support Steve's journey to become your next Sheriff. Food, fun and fellowship was the order of the day, topped off with a few words from Steve. Sincere thanks to all for your phone calls, emails, and support of this event.
Steve summed it up best, "St. Mary's County is first in Maryland, and second to none!"
(click the images to view full size)
-
Thanks to all who attended!
-
A few words from Steve
-
Family...nothing better!
-
Thumbs up!
FROM SOUTHERN MARYLAND NEWS
CALEB M. SOPTELEAN, STAFF WRITER
SEPTEMBER 30, 2021 - Steve Hall is looking to take advantage of an opportunity to serve his county more.
The St. Mary's Sheriff's Office captain is running for the Republican nomination to replace current Sheriff Tim Cameron (R) in next year's election.
Hall, 51, was "an Army kid" but was raised in St. Mary's County since age 6.
He started with the county as a Correctional Officer and worked there for two years before he moved over to the sworn law enforcement side, he said. That was 27 years ago.
Hall, who has a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology with an emphasis on Law enforcement from Western State College in Gunnison Colorado, said he knows what the challenges are that the county is facing.
Some of those include replacing a long-time Sheriff. Cameron is nearing the end of his fourth four-year term, and said he does not plan to run again.
Other challenges include responding to police reform bills that recently passed the General Assembly, replacing a number of officers who plan to retire soon - Hall knows of at least seven so far, and retaining officers who are hired.
The process for new hires can last as long at 18 months, he said. This includes training and the time it takes to complete a background check, which can last for up to six months.
Hall wants to do a better job of mentoring young officers, help them build a "career ladder" to advance through the department and keep the pay and benefits package competitive.
He said the county commissioners have done a good job on the latter, but emphasized that it has to continue. As an example, he said Anne Arundel County is offering sworn officers "an ungodly amount of money" to transfer.
He wants to continue the community Policing model begun by Cameron by fully utilizing district stations. A third recently opened in California, but it is currently being used by the Criminal Investigations Unit due to lack of space at the headquarters in Leonardtown. The county's capital improvement plan includes a replacement for the headquarters in fiscal 2026.
Ideally, Hall would like to see the district stations staffed 24/7 by patrol officers.
He noted that the Sheriff's Office needs to hire around 20 Correctional Officers just so it can open the new "F Wing" at the jail, which will be used to house women and include a pharmacy.
The Sheriff's Office is authorized for 164 sworn officers but currently has 140. The jail is authorized for around 100 Correctional Officers but has around 80, he said.
Hall is married to Faith Hall. The couple has two sons, Trent, 24, and Clay, 23. Hall said his grandfathers came to St. Mary's in 1939 and 1949, reflecting his family's strong roots in the area.
FROM THE COUNTY TIMES
GUY LEONARD, STAFF WRITER
SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 - Capt. Steve Hall, a long-serving member of the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office and current commander of the agency's Special Operations Division has filed to be the county's next sheriff.
Hall, a Republican, filed to run Sept. 2, according to the Maryland Board of Elections.
Hall said the agency has developed an enviable reputation for effectiveness while building a strong, positive relationship with the community.
One of his chief aims if elected is to maintain and improve that relationship.
"The citizens deserve a responsive and professional sheriff's office," Hall said. "And I accept the responsibility to deliver it."
"The one thing you have to do is maintain the public trust; that's hard won and easily lost."
Hall wants to recruit and retain the best deputy candidates he can find "based on character, not just money."
He also plans on exposing officers to a variety of training once employed by the agency and moving them to different divisions to ensure they are familiar and competent in working in all aspects of the job.
"I don't want siloed officers," Hall said. "What I'm not going to stand is unreliability and anyone who erodes the public's trust."
The agency is facing many new challenges, including the legal necessity of complying with a bevy of police reforms passed in the most recent General Assembly session.
Hall believes his extensive experience in the agency puts him in the best position to deal with those reforms as the new sheriff.
Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron, who has held the office for four, four-year terms said Hall has worked in all departments of the agency from corrections to the detective squad to command, Cameron told The County Times.
Hall has also graduated from the FBI National Academy.
"He certainly doesn't need my blessing (to run for sheriff) but he has my full support," said Cameron. "He would be an excellent fit for sheriff."
"The agency and the community would be in good hands."
SEPTEMBER 15, 2021 - St. Mary's County Health Department's Dr. Meena Brewster presented Steve with the PUBLIC HEALTH LEADERSHIP AWARD, recognizing him for his leadership role in the COVID-19 pandemic response in St. Mary's County.
Steve commented, "This award and the recognition is particularly meaningful because of the incredible people who presented it today.
Most importantly, this award belongs to the Sheriff's Office supervisors and deputies who responded to COVID-related calls for service and scheduled or staffed the testing and vaccination sites throughout our county. OUR Sheriff's Office, doing amazing things, in unprecedented times!"
SEPTEMBER 2, 2021 - St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office Captain Steve Hall filed his candidacy to become the next Sheriff of St. Mary’s County. Steve began his law enforcement career with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office 27 years ago.
Steve has served in a variety of positions and roles in every division of the Sheriff's Office. With assignments ranging from Correctional Officer to Division Commander, Steve has "risen through the ranks." Steve is continually advancing his education to better serve you.
Steve has received his Masters Degree in Management and Leadership from Webster University in St. Louis and his Undergraduate Degree is from Western State College in Colorado. His diverse career in public service, command experience, dedication to professionalism, specialized training and education set apart his candidacy from others.
Steve's formative years began right here in St. Mary's County. He graduated from St. Mary's Ryken High School in 1988 and began his career with the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office in 1994.
Steve noted, “It has been an honor to serve the citizens of St. Mary's County these past 27 years. I look forward to the opportunity of bringing my experience and leadership to continue my call to serve as your next Sheriff of St. Mary's County."
